Dragoon Kit

Seventeenth century clothing was made predominantly from wool and linen; some cotton was used but this was restricted by cost to the upper classes. Clothes had to last longer so patches and repairs were normal.

 

Soldier's Coat

A linen-lined wool coat to authentic pattern available through the regiment.

 

 

 

 

Breeches

Breeches were of heavy wool and dyed to the colour of the regiment: black in the case of Waller’s. Breeches can be lined or unlined, but lined is recommended for riding. The buttons, like all of the period, should be shanked rather than drilled.

 

 

Shirt

A plain linen shirt with a standing or plain collar. Unlike modern shirts they have no yoke and the neck is fastened by use of holes and cord.

 

 

Hose

Hose were like modern day stockings but were made from cut cloth, linen or wool. They were frequently dyed and came in a wide range of colours.

 

 

 

Cockers

Instead of boots, dragoons often wore the cheaper cockers or gaiters with soldier's shoes. These are slips worn on the legs and tied below the knees

 

 

 

 

Soldier's Shoes

Shoes and boots were 'straights', i.e. the left and right feet were cut the same shape and were therefore interchangable.

 

 

 

Hat

Normally a knitted 'Monmouth' or wollen 'Montero'. Only occasionally were the wide-brimmed felt 'Beavers' worn by soldiers. The hat conceals steel 'secret' to protect the head when riding.

 

Gauntlets

Used to protect the hand from injury and to ensure a good grip on reins and sword, they should be flexible enough to ride in and of a similar colour to a buffcoat.

 

 

 

Powder Flask

To an authentic but safe pattern, designed to discharge a stadard charge of powder, and to come apart easily in the event of the powder catching fire.